Ear Surgery (otoplasty)
Procedure
Set prominent ears back closer to the head, or reduce the size of large ears. Most often done on children between the ages of 4 and 14 years. (Occasionally covered by insurance).
Length
2 to 3 hours
Anesthesia
Young children: usually general
Older children or adults: general or local, with sedation
In/Outpatient
Usually outpatient.
Side Effects
Temporary throbbing, aching, swelling, redness, numbness
Risks
Infection of cartilage, excessive scarring, blood clot that may need to be drained, mismatched or artificial-looking ears, recurrence of the protrusion, requiring repeat surgery
Recovery
Back to work or school: 5 to 7 days
Strenuous activity, contact sports: 1 to 2 months



